F1 drivers call for Spa reprieve

Spa's appearance on the F1 schedule is in doubt due to a wrangle over tobacco advertising and grand prix ringmaster Bernie Ecclestone has dropped the event for 2000.

Drivers have expressed their concern over the decision to scrap the Spa race, regarded as one of the most challenging tracks in the world.

However, they also suggested safety improvements at Eau Rouge corner, where BAR's Jacques Villeneuve and Ricardo Zonta had horrific crashes.

Ferrari driver Mika Salo said, 'F1 would be devalued if Spa was not on the calendar. 'It's one of the old-fashioned circuits, and we have to have circuits like this.

'But they have to do something about Eau Rouge. I had a crash there (last year) and I know it hurts.'

Salo suggested moving the walls back by 50m.

Meanwhile, Jean Alesi, who is set for a summer move to Prost, believes Spa is less dangerous than other high-speed F1 circuits.

'There are some critical points on the circuit,' said the Frenchman, 'but we race on more dangerous tracks than Spa. Hockenheim and Monza are worse.'

Race winner David Coulthard added, 'It's my favourite circuit. But changes should be made at Eau Rouge and Blanchimont. The run-off is not big enough.'

But, Jacques Villeneuve, who crashed off at the famous corner on Saturday believes no safety improvements are needed.

'I still love this circuit,' he said. 'I don't think there is a problem.'